FLORENCE — A perceived lack of transparency by the Florence school board has become a top concern among members of the Florence Education Association, according to Emmitt Jimmar, the group’s representative for the Alabama Education Association.

Jimmar told the school board on Tuesday, during a five-minute public comment period, that the FEA has some, “real confidence issues with this school board.”

Jimmar said after the meeting that there are no firm plans for a systemwide vote of confidence to be taken on top administration (including the school board), but it has been discussed and could be a possibility if the board doesn’t start operating more openly.

That was the message he brought to the board on Tuesday when he said, “We’re dealing with a confidence issue with this board and our question is, will you listen?”

He went on to say that hasn’t been the case in the past.

Jimmar said the group’s concerns have heightened in recent months with the board’s approval of board member Brad Dethero to a four-year term without conducting interviews or any type of public forum.

Jimmar went on to say that the FEA membership was likewise concerned about the recent large salary increases for superintendent Janet Womack and the school’s financial officer and assistant superintendent Connie Roberts. Combined the raises amounted to $39,800. Jimmar said it seemed the board approved those raises without taking into account the total employee population.

Lisa Singleton-Rickman can be reached at 256-740-5735 or lisa.singleton-rickman@TimesDaily.com.